What is the process of collecting essential oils called?

The process of collecting essential oils is commonly referred to as distillation. This method involves heating plant materials to extract the volatile compounds that contribute to the aroma and therapeutic properties of the essential oils. During distillation, steam passes through the plant material, vaporizing the essential oils. The vapor is then cooled and condensed back into liquid form, allowing for the separation of the essential oils from the plant's physical matter.

Distillation is particularly important because it preserves the delicate fragrance and therapeutic qualities of the essential oils. This technique is widely used for many common essential oils, such as lavender and peppermint, ensuring that the final product retains the integrity of the original plant.

While extraction, purification, and refinement are also processes related to essential oils, they refer to different methods or stages in the handling and processing of plant materials. Extraction can encompass various techniques, including solvent extraction or cold pressing, while purification focuses on removing impurities from the oil. Refinement typically refers to improving the quality of the oil through various processing steps, rather than the initial collection process itself.